This morning I woke up to a text message from a new friend. I purposely do not look at any devices when I wake up for at least 20 minutes (especially on Sundays – my day off). I get up, stretch a bit, make my bed…do my morning routine. Get some coffee and then check email. I noticed a text waiting for me. This young woman sent me a message late last night and because of her words I started my day with increased gratitude.

The Power of Words

I learned a phrase from another new friend a couple of months ago. “Flip the script.” That has become my go-to phrase in any situation when negativity appears or become the predominant emotion in a discussion. While situations arise where uncomfortable or unfavorable topics must be addressed, the manner in which we deal with those topics is completely within our control. We can face a stressful situation with anxiety and tension. We can let the negative emotion carry into the next activity of the day. Or…we can find the solution. We can tackle the problem and leave with an action plan and inspiration to complete any task.

The Power of Words

I’m constantly saying, “I’ll find the happy in any situation given enough time.” It may take me time – a lot of time. Eventually, I’ll find a silver lining, a glimmer of hope, a potential positive, or at least a lesson learned. I want my children to learn to look for the positive – to see me modeling positivity. They deserve to hear the spin of happy in any situation we may face. Sometimes days exists where everything that could go wrong does. There isn’t always a positive find for the events of that day but maybe those events led to deeper discussions, a closer connection, or thoughtful planning to make the next day better.

The Power of Words

This morning my friend had no way of knowing I’ve been struggling. The past few days have been filled with headaches more insane than my normal headaches and migraines, family events where you have to be on regardless of how you feel, and anxiety over upcoming plans. She had no idea her words would make me pause, think about what I could have possibly said to cause her to send such a kind text, and make me focus on channeling positivity into my words today. Her words were POWERFUL.

Think about what you say. A random comment may bounce off one person but impact another. Why not take a moment and say thank you, share a compliment, or simply listen to what someone else is saying – HEARING their words? Kindness is free and we need to share with one another. Words, spoken and heard, are a great place to start.